News

The aircraft, a Boeing 787-8 registered as VT-ANX and operating Flight AI-132 from London Heathrow to Bengaluru, was taken out of service after pilots reported unusual behaviour in the left engine’s fuel control switch. While the aircraft landed safely, what the crew observed during engine start-up has since drawn the attention of both the aviation regulator and the aircraft manufacturer.

According to inputs from aviation safety observers, the problem surfaced during engine start when the left engine’s fuel control switch failed to remain locked in the ‘Run’ position. On two attempts, the switch reportedly moved towards ‘Cut-off’.

Experts warn that such behaviour, though detected on the ground in this case, could under specific circumstances lead to an unintended engine shutdown during flight. While no emergency occurred, the nature of the fault has been described as technically serious and not one that can be treated lightly.

Following the pilot’s report, Air India grounded the aircraft as a precautionary step and informed the aviation regulator.

In a statement, the airline said it has involved the original equipment manufacturer to examine the issue on a priority basis. The matter has been formally reported to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation, which has sought detailed information and initiated a review.

Air India reiterated that passenger and crew safety remains its top priority and said the aircraft was withdrawn from service immediately after the concern was raised.

Boeing has confirmed it is in contact with Air India and is supporting the airline’s assessment of the reported malfunction.

The fuel control switch is a vital part of the cockpit, as it controls the flow of fuel to the engines. Even a suspected problem with its locking mechanism is taken seriously, especially on long-haul wide-body aircraft where safety margins are critical.

The incident has drawn extra attention because of its timing. It comes while investigators are still probing the June 2025 Air India crash near Ahmedabad, which involved another Boeing 787 and killed 260 people.

Early findings in that case suggested fuel supply to both engines was cut off soon after take-off. Cockpit voice recordings pointed to confusion between the pilots over the position of the fuel switches. While investigators are yet to establish whether the switches moved because of a mechanical problem or some other factor, the latest episode has renewed focus on fuel switch safety.

Air India has said it previously carried out inspections of fuel control switches across its entire Boeing 787 fleet following regulatory directions, and that no systemic problems were identified at the time.

The grounded aircraft will remain out of service until detailed technical checks are completed in coordination with the manufacturer and cleared by the regulator.